Business

Definition

Business is a noun that refers to the practice of making one's living by engaging in commerce, trade, or the production and sale of goods or services. It can also mean a company or organization involved in commercial, industrial, or professional activities, as well as any personal concern or responsibility.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈbɪznəs/
• Respelling: BIZ-nis

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈbɪznɪs/
• Respelling: BIZ-nis

Etymology

The word "business" originates from the Old English term "bisignis," meaning "anxiety" or "occupation." It developed through Middle English as "busyness," eventually evolving to mean the occupation or activities in which one engages to earn a livelihood.

Derivatives

• Businesslike (adjective)
• Businessman (noun)
• Businesswoman (noun)
• Businesses (plural noun)
• Businessperson (noun)

Synonyms

• Enterprise
• Commerce
• Industry

Antonyms

• Leisure
• Unemployment
• Idleness

Usage

The term "business" is commonly used to refer to an individual's occupation, a company or enterprise, or the activities related to buying and selling goods or services. For example, "He started his own business last year," or "The company specializes in online business solutions."

Related Terms

• Corporation: A large company or group of companies authorized to act as a single entity.
• Entrepreneurship: The process of starting and running a business.
• Economics: The study of the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• Commerce, trade, or occupation: Refers to the practice of engaging in activities that involve selling goods or services for profit.
  • Example: "She works in the tech business."
• A company or organization: Describes an entity engaged in commercial, industrial, or professional activities.
  • Example: "The business expanded to international markets."
• Personal concern or responsibility: Used informally to refer to one’s own concerns or matters.
  • Example: "Mind your own business."